Marissa M., MSW Intern

Hello!

My name is Marissa and I am a Clinical Social Work Intern. A native of New Mexico, I attended The University of New Mexico for my bachelor degrees in Psychology and Sociology (2022), and I am currently in the final year of my Masters degree at New Mexico State University.

I believe that every person has intrinsic value, deserves to be seen with compassion and dignity, and has the capacity for growth and change. My approach to clinical social work is based in the belief that therapy is a tool for growth, healing, self-discovery, and connection—and that it should be tailored to each individual client, rather than expecting every client to fit the same mold.

My experience in juvenile justice, education, eating disorder treatment, autism, and individual, family, and group therapy has taught me to look beyond presenting concerns and consider the whole person within the context of their relationships, communities, culture, environment, and systems. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, movement and art therapy to meet clients where they are. I value creativity and flexibility in therapy because I believe meaningful therapeutic work can look different for every person. I love people and genuinely enjoy building relationships with individuals and communities.

I strive to work alongside clients and local communities not only at the individual level, but also at the structural level, recognizing barriers, inequities, and systems that can influence mental health and access to resources. I believe social work requires both compassion for individual experiences and a commitment to creating healthier, more equitable communities.

Outside of clinical work, I find connection and inspiration through God, hiking, cooking, music, and art. I especially love Halloween, which reflects my appreciation for creativity, individuality, and the opportunity to embrace a little bit of fun and imagination. I hope to bring that same openness and authenticity into my work with clients.

Ultimately, my philosophy is rooted in connection, curiosity, compassion, and respect. I want my clients to feel valued for who they are, supported in exploring who they want to become, and empowered to recognize their own strengths. My role is not to tell people who they should be, but to walk alongside them, offer tools and support, and create a therapeutic space where growth can happen in a way that is meaningful to them.